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The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Saturday said that in a joint operation with the Indian Coast Guard and the Marine Task Force they apprehended nine Iranian smugglers and recovered around 100 kg heroin worth Rs 500 crore from their boat.

"ATS has seized approximately 100 kg heroin from the smuggler's boat, which is estimated to be of Rs 500 crore in the international market. Legal action is being initiated against them," said the ATS at a press conference here on Saturday.

According to ATS, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) BP Rojiya had got information that an illegal consignment of narcotic drugs and heroin is going to be smuggled in Gujarat through the coast. He passed on the information to senior officers of ATS.

On the basis of limited information, a continuous search operation was undertaken by the joint team of three agencies - Indian Coast Guard, ATS, and Marine Task Force.

The seizure was made on March 26 as disclosed by the ATS in the press conference.

"After more than 24 hours of search, we identified a suspicious boat. ICG Ship chased the boat. The boat's crew set it ablaze to destroy the evidence. Indian Coast Guard ship attempted to extinguish the fire, but could not succeed due to the presence of 24,000-litre fuel and a few gas cylinders," said the ATS.

During the interrogation of nine Iranian nationals, the ATS came to know about Pakistani national Hamid Malek, who had sent the consignment, which was loaded in the Iranian boat off Gwadar port of Pakistan. Further investigation in the matter is underway.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Saturday said that in a joint operation with the Indian Coast Guard and the Marine Task Force they apprehended nine Iranian smugglers and recovered around 100 kg heroin worth Rs 500 crore from their boat.

The Anti-Terrorist Squad (ATS) on Saturday said that in a joint operation with the Indian Coast Guard and the Marine Task Force they apprehended nine Iranian smugglers and recovered around 100 kg heroin worth Rs 500 crore from their boat. "ATS has seized approximately 100 kg heroin from the smuggler's boat, which is estimated to be of Rs 500 crore in the international market. Legal action is being initiated against them," said the ATS at a press conference here on Saturday. According to ATS, Assistant Commissioner of Police (ACP) BP Rojiya had got information that an illegal consignment of narcotic drugs and heroin is going to be smuggled in Gujarat through the coast. He passed on the information to senior officers of ATS. On the basis of limited information, a continuous search operation was undertaken by the joint team of three agencies - Indian Coast Guard, ATS, and Marine Task Force. The seizure was made on March 26 as disclosed by the ATS in the press conference. "After more than 24 hours of search, we identified a suspicious boat. ICG Ship chased the boat. The boat's crew set it ablaze to destroy the evidence. Indian Coast Guard ship attempted to extinguish the fire, but could not succeed due to the presence of 24,000-litre fuel and a few gas cylinders," said the ATS. During the interrogation of nine Iranian nationals, the ATS came to know about Pakistani national Hamid Malek, who had sent the consignment, which was loaded in the Iranian boat off Gwadar port of Pakistan. Further investigation in the matter is underway.

Gujarat ATS arrests 9 Iranians; heroin worth Rs 500 crore recovered

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections.

"When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here.

"It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president.

Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party."

Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies.

Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption.

"In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said.

Talking about the Congress'&nbsp;pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao'&nbsp;have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden."

"The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.'&nbsp;The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said.

Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?"

Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people."

"Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said.

Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji.

BJP president Amit Shah on Saturday took a swipe at BSP supremo Mayawati, stating she remembers Bharat Ratna Dr BR Ambedkar only during elections. "When it is time for elections, Behenji remembers Ambedkar ji. But when she comes to power, she forgets Ambedkar ji and builds her own statues," Shah said while addressing an election rally here. "It is the BJP government that has built Ambedkar ji's memorial in five years. We have done a lot of works for Dalits in the last five years," added the BJP president. Reiterating his party's tough stance on infiltrators, Shah said, "Infiltrators are dangerous for the security of our country. They are eating our country like termites. We will not tolerate this. We will ensure that every single infiltrator is thrown out from this country by our party." Hitting out at Congress, BSP and SP, Shah claimed that these parties could not keep the country safe, and contended that only the BJP could keep the nation safe from its enemies. Accusing the Congress of ignoring the welfare of poor people, Shah said that the leaders in the grand old party were only "interested" in indulging in corruption. "In the last 55 years, Rahul Gandhi and his party did not care for the poor. They did not do anything. In the last two years, Uttar Pradesh under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath has done a lot of works for the poor," he said. Talking about the Congress' pledge to remove poverty from the country, he said, "Those who were giving slogans on 'Garibi Hatao' have been taught a lesson by Prime Minister Narendra Modi by ensuring employment to poor and downtrodden." "The people of this country want to see Narendra Modi as the Prime Minister again. The entire country is chanting 'Modi, Modi.' The electorates have decided to elect Narendra Modi again," he said. Earlier addressing an election rally in Badaun, Shah took a jibe at the grand alliance of SP-BSP in Uttar Pradesh, stating that "Mahagathbandhan has no policy and no face. Can they give a befitting reply to terrorism? I want to ask the alliance - Who is your face?" Highlighting the works done by the BJP, Shah said, "The Narendra Modi government made 9,400 houses for the poor in Badaun, provided insurance to 75,000 people, and opened bank accounts for 80,000 people." "Around 75, 000 farmers here enjoy the benefit of Pradhan Mantri Fasal Bima Yojana. We also gave two lakh gas connections to women," he said. Eight constituencies in Uttar Pradesh, where 80 Lok Sabha seats are at stake, went to polls during the first phase of polling April 11. In the second phase on April 18, eight seats will go to polls. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Mayawati remembers Dr Ambedkar only during polls: Amit Shah

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must.

"I could have fought from several places. People asked me why I'm not contesting as our TMC has got national party recognition. I can contest from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar. If I'm winning I can contest from anywhere but I do not want division of votes," she said while addressing a public gathering at Siliguri in West Bengal.

"I want regional parties to go ahead. Lalu Yadav in Bihar, Mayawati and Akhilesh in Uttar Pradesh and AAP in Delhi. I have helped everyone and brought everyone together," she stressed.

Underlying the need for the Opposition to defeat the BJP government, Mamata said, "We contest on 9 seats in Assam, 1 in Andaman, 2 to 4 in Odisha. We will contest from Jharkhand on three to four sets but Bengal is our main focus and loyalty. We will not leave any stone unturned to come into power in the state. Everyone vote is very important to bring development in Bengal."

The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said wherever regional parties are strong they should not lose their votes from their area. "BJP is at no place, CPM is something in Kerala but nothing across the country. Even Congress can do nothing. Whatever little they have in other states let them fight from there...we have no issue with it. But where I am strong why would you vote for the Congress. Where Chandrababu Naidu is strong why would you vote for some other party," she said.

Continuing her tirade against the BJP and Prime Minister Modi for ruling in an authoritative manner, Mamata said, "BJP looted traders, framers, industrialist, young generation and maa-behen (mother-daughter). Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are facing atrocities. We will not allow this. We will follow the footsteps of Dr BR Ambedkar. No political party has the right to torture the minority."

"Air India no more serves non-vegetarian food. It is like what he (PM Modi) wants to eat everyone has to eat that. We will eat what we want. It is my choice whether I want to eat veg or non-veg. Who is Modi to tell us?" she said.

She added it is dangerous for us that there is a party called RSS who carries "danda (stick) and roam around with goondas" (goons). Asserting that Prime Minister Modi is spreading rumours about two most prominent religious festivals -- Saraswati pooja and Durga Pooja, the TMC chief said, "Is it so? Are not we celebration Durga pooja and Saraswati pooja. Who is he to tell us about our people, state and culture. Can he chant a single mantra? For his whimsical thoughts, he has started behaving like Hitler."

The Lok Sabha polls for 42 parliamentary seats in West Bengal began on April 11 and it is staggered in all seven phases till May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must.

West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee on Saturday said she can contest from any part of the country but chose not to do so as does not want division of votes, adding that stronghold of regional parties in states is a must. "I could have fought from several places. People asked me why I'm not contesting as our TMC has got national party recognition. I can contest from Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan and Bihar. If I'm winning I can contest from anywhere but I do not want division of votes," she said while addressing a public gathering at Siliguri in West Bengal. "I want regional parties to go ahead. Lalu Yadav in Bihar, Mayawati and Akhilesh in Uttar Pradesh and AAP in Delhi. I have helped everyone and brought everyone together," she stressed. Underlying the need for the Opposition to defeat the BJP government, Mamata said, "We contest on 9 seats in Assam, 1 in Andaman, 2 to 4 in Odisha. We will contest from Jharkhand on three to four sets but Bengal is our main focus and loyalty. We will not leave any stone unturned to come into power in the state. Everyone vote is very important to bring development in Bengal." The Trinamool Congress (TMC) supremo said wherever regional parties are strong they should not lose their votes from their area. "BJP is at no place, CPM is something in Kerala but nothing across the country. Even Congress can do nothing. Whatever little they have in other states let them fight from there...we have no issue with it. But where I am strong why would you vote for the Congress. Where Chandrababu Naidu is strong why would you vote for some other party," she said. Continuing her tirade against the BJP and Prime Minister Modi for ruling in an authoritative manner, Mamata said, "BJP looted traders, framers, industrialist, young generation and maa-behen (mother-daughter). Scheduled Castes and Scheduled Tribes are facing atrocities. We will not allow this. We will follow the footsteps of Dr BR Ambedkar. No political party has the right to torture the minority." "Air India no more serves non-vegetarian food. It is like what he (PM Modi) wants to eat everyone has to eat that. We will eat what we want. It is my choice whether I want to eat veg or non-veg. Who is Modi to tell us?" she said. She added it is dangerous for us that there is a party called RSS who carries "danda (stick) and roam around with goondas" (goons). Asserting that Prime Minister Modi is spreading rumours about two most prominent religious festivals -- Saraswati pooja and Durga Pooja, the TMC chief said, "Is it so? Are not we celebration Durga pooja and Saraswati pooja. Who is he to tell us about our people, state and culture. Can he chant a single mantra? For his whimsical thoughts, he has started behaving like Hitler." The Lok Sabha polls for 42 parliamentary seats in West Bengal began on April 11 and it is staggered in all seven phases till May 19. The results will be declared on May 23.

I can contest from anywhere but don't want division of votes: Mamata Banerjee

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP.

"In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours.... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said.

Ali is a revered figure in Islam and Lord Hanuman is often called Bajrang Bali. Both Mayawati and Adityanath were served notices by the Election Commission over their remarks.

"We particularly want Bajrang Bali because he is linked to my own Dalit caste," Mayawati said. The BSP chief was apparently referring to Adityanath's comments last year when he had described Lord Hanuman as a forest dweller and a Dalit.

"I am very thankful to Yogi ji that he has given us an important information about our ancestors. So, it is a very happy moment to note that we have both Ali and Bajrang Bali, and their coming together will give us very good results in these elections," she said.

"In the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh, Yogi's party (BJP) will neither get the votes of Ali nor Bajrang Bali, who is associated with my caste," she said.

Mayawati was addressing a rally of the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in favour of Samajwadi Party nominee Dharmendra Yadav for the Badaun Lok Sabha seat, where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present.

"In these elections, the NaMo NaMo people are going out of power and the Jai Bhim ones are coming, which is also the need of the country." NaMo is an acronym for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jai Bhim is the slogan used by followers of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar.

The BSP president said Dalits have long left the Congress and also the BJP.

"After Independence, for a long time, both at the Centre and states, there had been Congress governments.... It was the wrong policies and working of the Congress that forced it out of power," Mayawati said.

Similarly, she said, in the ongoing election, the BJP will be thrown out of power because of its pro-RSS, "casteist, capitalist, communal and narrow mindset", besides alleged wrong policies and wrong-doings.

"In these elections, no amount of drama or 'jumlebaazi' (rhetoric) is going to help the BJP. Even the new drama of 'chowkidari' is not going to save them this time," Mayawati said.

The BSP leader also alleged that Modi had tried to mislead people by resorting to gimmicks even after the announcement of election dates.

Mayawati also alleged that even one-fourth of the "achchhe din" (goods days) that the BJP promised had not been fulfilled.&nbsp;

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste".

Giving her own twist to a recent remark by Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath, BSP chief Mayawati Saturday said her party wanted both Ali and Bajrang Bali -- particularly Bajrang Bali as the deity is "linked with my own Dalit caste". Addressing a rally in Badaun, Mayawati recalled Adityanath's comment on Tuesday in which he referred to her earlier appeal to Muslims to vote for the opposition alliance in Uttar Pradesh. The chief minister had said if Ali is with the BSP-SP-RLD alliance, then Bajrang Bali is with the BJP. "In this connection, I want to tell him (Adityanath) that both Ali and Bajrang Bali are ours.... So we want both Ali as well as Bajrang Bali," she said. Ali is a revered figure in Islam and Lord Hanuman is often called Bajrang Bali. Both Mayawati and Adityanath were served notices by the Election Commission over their remarks. "We particularly want Bajrang Bali because he is linked to my own Dalit caste," Mayawati said. The BSP chief was apparently referring to Adityanath's comments last year when he had described Lord Hanuman as a forest dweller and a Dalit. "I am very thankful to Yogi ji that he has given us an important information about our ancestors. So, it is a very happy moment to note that we have both Ali and Bajrang Bali, and their coming together will give us very good results in these elections," she said. "In the Lok Sabha election in Uttar Pradesh, Yogi's party (BJP) will neither get the votes of Ali nor Bajrang Bali, who is associated with my caste," she said. Mayawati was addressing a rally of the BSP-SP-RLD alliance in favour of Samajwadi Party nominee Dharmendra Yadav for the Badaun Lok Sabha seat, where SP chief Akhilesh Yadav was also present. "In these elections, the NaMo NaMo people are going out of power and the Jai Bhim ones are coming, which is also the need of the country." NaMo is an acronym for Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Jai Bhim is the slogan used by followers of Dalit icon B R Ambedkar. The BSP president said Dalits have long left the Congress and also the BJP. "After Independence, for a long time, both at the Centre and states, there had been Congress governments.... It was the wrong policies and working of the Congress that forced it out of power," Mayawati said. Similarly, she said, in the ongoing election, the BJP will be thrown out of power because of its pro-RSS, "casteist, capitalist, communal and narrow mindset", besides alleged wrong policies and wrong-doings. "In these elections, no amount of drama or 'jumlebaazi' (rhetoric) is going to help the BJP. Even the new drama of 'chowkidari' is not going to save them this time," Mayawati said. The BSP leader also alleged that Modi had tried to mislead people by resorting to gimmicks even after the announcement of election dates. Mayawati also alleged that even one-fourth of the "achchhe din" (goods days) that the BJP promised had not been fulfilled.

Both Ali and Bajrang Bali ours, says BSP chief Mayawati

British High Commissioner to India&nbsp;Sir Dominic Asquith laid the wreath at <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/amritsar-hundreds-take-candle-march-to-commemorate-jallianwala-bagh-massacre-centenary-209984">Jallianwala Bagh memorial </a>in Punjab's Amritsar on Saturday to pay homage to hundreds of people, who were a massacre by British forces on April 13, 191.

Events of Jallianwala Bagh 100 years also reflects a "shameful act in British-India history",&nbsp;Sir Asquith said in a message he wrote in the&nbsp;visitor's book.&nbsp;

"We deeply regret what happened and the suffering caused. I am pleased that the UK and India have remained committed to developing further a thriving 21st Century partnership," Sir Asquith added in the message.

April 13 (Saturday) marks the 100th anniversary of the massacre, in which British forces led by Brigadier General Reginald Dyer opened fire on hundreds of unarmed, innocent Indians, including women and children in the enclosed area, who were protesting peacefully against the oppressive Rowlatt Act of the British government in 1919.

The massacre, on April 13, 1919, is one of the darkest chapters of India's freedom struggle against the British occupation.

Colonial-era records show about 400 people died but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000.

The massacre became a symbol of colonial cruelty and for decades <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-apology-not-regret-from-britain-says-kin-of-those-killed-in-jallianwala-bagh-massacre-209940">Indians have demanded an apology from Britain</a>, including during Queen Elizabeth's visit to Amritsar in 1997.

On Wednesday, May told the British parliament that "the tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 is a shameful scar on British Indian history", but she did not issue a formal apology.

In 2013, then British Prime Minister David Cameron described the killings as a "deeply shameful event" in a visitor book at the site, now marked by a 46-foot (14-metre) high flame-shaped memorial.

Security in the city - also home to Sikhism's holiest shrine the Golden Temple - has been stepped up as hundreds of visitors and groups are likely to arrive at the site, Amritsar Police Commissioner S.S. Srivastava said.

(With inputs from agencies)

British High Commissioner to India Sir Dominic Asquith laid the wreath at Jallianwala Bagh memorial in Punjab's Amritsar on Saturday to pay homage to hundreds of people, who were a massacre by British forces on April 13, 191.

British High Commissioner to India Sir Dominic Asquith laid the wreath at Jallianwala Bagh memorial in Punjab's Amritsar on Saturday to pay homage to hundreds of people, who were a massacre by British forces on April 13, 191. Events of Jallianwala Bagh 100 years also reflects a "shameful act in British-India history", Sir Asquith said in a message he wrote in the visitor's book. "We deeply regret what happened and the suffering caused. I am pleased that the UK and India have remained committed to developing further a thriving 21st Century partnership," Sir Asquith added in the message. April 13 (Saturday) marks the 100th anniversary of the massacre, in which British forces led by Brigadier General Reginald Dyer opened fire on hundreds of unarmed, innocent Indians, including women and children in the enclosed area, who were protesting peacefully against the oppressive Rowlatt Act of the British government in 1919. The massacre, on April 13, 1919, is one of the darkest chapters of India's freedom struggle against the British occupation. Colonial-era records show about 400 people died but Indian figures put the toll at closer to 1,000. The massacre became a symbol of colonial cruelty and for decades Indians have demanded an apology from Britain, including during Queen Elizabeth's visit to Amritsar in 1997. On Wednesday, May told the British parliament that "the tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 is a shameful scar on British Indian history", but she did not issue a formal apology. In 2013, then British Prime Minister David Cameron described the killings as a "deeply shameful event" in a visitor book at the site, now marked by a 46-foot (14-metre) high flame-shaped memorial. Security in the city - also home to Sikhism's holiest shrine the Golden Temple - has been stepped up as hundreds of visitors and groups are likely to arrive at the site, Amritsar Police Commissioner S.S. Srivastava said. (With inputs from agencies)

Jallianwala Bagh 'shameful act' in British-India history, says British High Commissioner

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a non-stop schedule at all times, even as he crisscrossed the country, holding Lok Sabha election rallies during the nine-day festival of Navratras.

The prime minister, while fasting, travelled 22,000 kilometres across 13 states, holding 23 rallies during Navratras according to sources in charge of planning PM Modi's election rallies.

Sources in the PMO say, his official work never stopped and he would return to Delhi after a full day's campaign of three to four rallies to look into the matters that demand immediate attention.

Prime Minister Modi, amidst hectic political activities at home, congratulated the leadership in the Maldives and President Benjamin Netanyahu on the successful electoral result in Israel.

He also thanked President Vladimir Putin and the people of Russia, for receiving the Order of St. Andrew, sources added.

However, Prime Minister Modi is not the only one with this hectic travel schedule. With an election that is coming down to the wire, frenetic campaigning and backbreaking travel itineraries have been planned for Rahul Gandhi as well, as he travels across the country addressing rallies.&nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a non-stop schedule at all times, even as he crisscrossed the country, holding Lok Sabha election rallies during the nine-day festival of Navratras.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi had a non-stop schedule at all times, even as he crisscrossed the country, holding Lok Sabha election rallies during the nine-day festival of Navratras. The prime minister, while fasting, travelled 22,000 kilometres across 13 states, holding 23 rallies during Navratras according to sources in charge of planning PM Modi's election rallies. Sources in the PMO say, his official work never stopped and he would return to Delhi after a full day's campaign of three to four rallies to look into the matters that demand immediate attention. Prime Minister Modi, amidst hectic political activities at home, congratulated the leadership in the Maldives and President Benjamin Netanyahu on the successful electoral result in Israel. He also thanked President Vladimir Putin and the people of Russia, for receiving the Order of St. Andrew, sources added. However, Prime Minister Modi is not the only one with this hectic travel schedule. With an election that is coming down to the wire, frenetic campaigning and backbreaking travel itineraries have been planned for Rahul Gandhi as well, as he travels across the country addressing rallies.

22,000 kilometres, 13 states and 23 rallies: PM Modi's jam-packed schedule while fasting during Navratri

The Ministry of Defence on Saturday quashed a report by French media that said that an Anil Ambani-owned company received massive tax cuts in France after Rafale deal. The ministry, in a statement, termed France's Le Monde's report as inaccurate and an attempt to disinform.

"We've seen reports drawing a conjectural connection between tax exemption to a private company and the procurement of Rafale jets by the Government of India. Neither the period of tax concession nor the subject matter of concession relate to Rafale procurement, concluded in present government's tenure," the statement read as reported by news agency Reuters.&nbsp;

"Any connections drawn between the tax issue and the Rafale matter is totally inaccurate, tendentious and is a mischievous attempt to disinform," the statement read further.&nbsp;

The French government also released an official statement on the issue stating, "A global settlement was reached between the French tax authorities and Reliance Flag, a telecom company, in a tax dispute pertaining to the period 2008-2012. This settlement was conducted in full adherence with the legislative and regulatory framework governing this common practice of the tax administration. It was not subject to any political interference whatsoever."

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<blockquote class="twitter-tweet" data-lang="en">
Ministry of Defence on reports drawing conjectural connection b/w tax exemption to a private company &amp; procurement of Rafale jets by GoI: Any connections drawn between the tax issue and the Rafale matter is totally inaccurate, tendentious and is a mischievous attempt to disinform <a href="https://t.co/Wnq3YfAZuE">https://t.co/Wnq3YfAZuE</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1117032143132200960?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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Le Monde’s report stated that French authorities waived off taxes worth 143 million euros, roughly 1, 200 crores, for Anil Ambani's France-based company.

The report said that this happened just a few months after PM Modi announced his plans to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from French company Dassault.

The company in question here is Reliance Flag Atlantic France, a telecommunications company owned by Indian businessman Anil Ambani.

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French Ambassador in response to the article published by Le Monde today: This settlement was conducted in full adherence with legislative &amp; regulatory framework governing this common practice of the tax administration. It was not subject to any political interference whatsoever. <a href="https://t.co/8ijyZaI8Tb">https://t.co/8ijyZaI8Tb</a>
— ANI (@ANI) <a href="https://twitter.com/ANI/status/1117071789908209665?ref_src=twsrc%5Etfw">April 13, 2019</a></blockquote>
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The report noted that Ambani's company was facing two tax investigations - one for the period between 2007 to 2010 when the firm was found liable to pay 60 million euros and the second from 2010 to 2012 after which the company was asked to pay an additional 91 million euros in taxes.

However, the report said that all of this dissolved six months after the Prime Minister made the Rafale in 2015.

The report also said that after the announcement, French tax authorities reportedly waived off Anil Ambani's tax debt worth 143.7 million euros and accepted 7.3 million euros from Reliance as a settlement.

Meanwhile, as per reports, Anil Ambani-led Reliance Communications on Saturday rubbished the French media report. In a statement, RCom clarified that the tax issue of its subsidiary Reliance FLAG Atlantic France SAS pertained to the year 2008 which was much before the government decided to purchase Rafale jets from French company Dassault.&nbsp;

The statement also added that the issue had been settled as per the local laws.

The Ministry of Defence on Saturday quashed a report by French media that said that an Anil Ambani-owned company received massive tax cuts in France after Rafale deal.

The Ministry of Defence on Saturday quashed a report by French media that said that an Anil Ambani-owned company received massive tax cuts in France after Rafale deal. The ministry, in a statement, termed France's Le Monde's report as inaccurate and an attempt to disinform. "We've seen reports drawing a conjectural connection between tax exemption to a private company and the procurement of Rafale jets by the Government of India. Neither the period of tax concession nor the subject matter of concession relate to Rafale procurement, concluded in present government's tenure," the statement read as reported by news agency Reuters. "Any connections drawn between the tax issue and the Rafale matter is totally inaccurate, tendentious and is a mischievous attempt to disinform," the statement read further. The French government also released an official statement on the issue stating, "A global settlement was reached between the French tax authorities and Reliance Flag, a telecom company, in a tax dispute pertaining to the period 2008-2012. This settlement was conducted in full adherence with the legislative and regulatory framework governing this common practice of the tax administration. It was not subject to any political interference whatsoever." Ministry of Defence on reports drawing conjectural connection b/w tax exemption to a private company & procurement of Rafale jets by GoI: Any connections drawn between the tax issue and the Rafale matter is totally inaccurate, tendentious and is a mischievous attempt to disinform https://t.co/Wnq3YfAZuE — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2019 × Le Monde’s report stated that French authorities waived off taxes worth 143 million euros, roughly 1, 200 crores, for Anil Ambani's France-based company. The report said that this happened just a few months after PM Modi announced his plans to buy 36 Rafale fighter jets from French company Dassault. The company in question here is Reliance Flag Atlantic France, a telecommunications company owned by Indian businessman Anil Ambani. French Ambassador in response to the article published by Le Monde today: This settlement was conducted in full adherence with legislative & regulatory framework governing this common practice of the tax administration. It was not subject to any political interference whatsoever. https://t.co/8ijyZaI8Tb — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2019 × The report noted that Ambani's company was facing two tax investigations - one for the period between 2007 to 2010 when the firm was found liable to pay 60 million euros and the second from 2010 to 2012 after which the company was asked to pay an additional 91 million euros in taxes. However, the report said that all of this dissolved six months after the Prime Minister made the Rafale in 2015. The report also said that after the announcement, French tax authorities reportedly waived off Anil Ambani's tax debt worth 143.7 million euros and accepted 7.3 million euros from Reliance as a settlement. Meanwhile, as per reports, Anil Ambani-led Reliance Communications on Saturday rubbished the French media report. In a statement, RCom clarified that the tax issue of its subsidiary Reliance FLAG Atlantic France SAS pertained to the year 2008 which was much before the government decided to purchase Rafale jets from French company Dassault. The statement also added that the issue had been settled as per the local laws.

Inaccurate, tendentious and mischievous attempt to disinform: Defence ministry quashes French report linking Ambani tax cut and Rafale deal

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jong-un-is-open-to-third-trump-summit-north-korean-state-media-209985">Kim Jong-un is open to third Trump summit: North Korean state media&nbsp;</a>

North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is willing to meet with US President Donald Trump a third time if Washington comes to the table with the "right attitude", state media reported Saturday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jallianwala-bagh-british-high-commissioner-lays-wreath-on-commemoration-of-100-years-of-massacre-209988">Jallianwala Bagh: 'shameful act' in British-India history, says British High Commissioner</a>

British High Commissioner to India Sir Dominic Asquith laid the wreath at Jallianwala Bagh memorial in Punjab's Amritsar on Saturday to pay homage to hundreds of people, who were a massacre by British forces on April 13, 191.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/head-of-sudans-military-council-steps-down-a-day-after-bashir-toppled-209979">Sudan coup leader Awad Ibn Auf steps down, a day after Bashir toppled</a>

Sudan's defence minister stepped down abruptly on Friday as head of the country's transitional ruling military council after only a day in the post, as protesters demanded quicker political change following President Omar al-Bashir's ouster by the armed forces.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/facebook-spends-226-million-to-keep-mark-zuckerberg-safe-209975">Facebook spends $22.6 million to keep Mark Zuckerberg safe</a>

Facebook Inc more than doubled the money it spent on Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg's security in 2018 to $22.6 million, a regulatory filing showed on Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/bjp-will-make-sedition-law-even-more-stringent-rajnath-singh-209977">BJP will make sedition law even more stringent: Rajnath Singh</a>

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

&nbsp;

Kim Jong-un is open to third Trump summit: North Korean state media North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is willing to meet with US President Donald Trump a third time if Washington comes to the table with the "right attitude", state media reported Saturday.

Kim Jong-un is open to third Trump summit: North Korean state media North Korean leader Kim Jong-un is willing to meet with US President Donald Trump a third time if Washington comes to the table with the "right attitude", state media reported Saturday. Jallianwala Bagh: 'shameful act' in British-India history, says British High Commissioner British High Commissioner to India Sir Dominic Asquith laid the wreath at Jallianwala Bagh memorial in Punjab's Amritsar on Saturday to pay homage to hundreds of people, who were a massacre by British forces on April 13, 191. Sudan coup leader Awad Ibn Auf steps down, a day after Bashir toppled Sudan's defence minister stepped down abruptly on Friday as head of the country's transitional ruling military council after only a day in the post, as protesters demanded quicker political change following President Omar al-Bashir's ouster by the armed forces. Facebook spends $22.6 million to keep Mark Zuckerberg safe Facebook Inc more than doubled the money it spent on Chief Executive Officer Mark Zuckerberg's security in 2018 to $22.6 million, a regulatory filing showed on Friday. BJP will make sedition law even more stringent: Rajnath Singh Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

News brief: Big stories of the day

On 100th anniversary, India pays homage to victims of Jallianwala Bagh massacre

Hundreds of people holding candles and the national flag marched through the northern Indian city of Amritsar on Friday, on the eve of the centenary of the colonial-era Jallianwala Bagh massacre that British Prime Minister Theresa May has called a "shameful scar."

On April 13, 1919, some 50 British Indian army soldiers began shooting at unarmed civilians who were taking part in a peaceful protest against oppressive laws enforced in the Punjab region.

At least 379 Sikhs were killed, according to the official record, although local residents said in the past the toll was far higher. The massacre took place in the walled enclosure of Jallianwala Bagh, which is still pocked with bullet marks.

The massacre became a symbol of colonial cruelty and for decades <a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/need-to-do-little-more-than-very-deep-regrets-on-jallianwala-bagh-british-minister-mark-fields-209164">Indians have demanded an apology from Britain</a>, including during Queen Elizabeth's visit to Amritsar in 1997.

On Wednesday, May told the British parliament that "<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jallianwala-bagh-tragedy-shameful-scar-on-british-indian-history-uk-pm-theresa-may-209295">the tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 is a shameful scar</a> on British Indian history", but she did not issue a formal apology.

In 2013, then British Prime Minister David Cameron described the killings as a "deeply shameful event" in a visitor book at the site, now marked by a 46-foot (14-metre) high flame-shaped memorial.

"There are events in the histories of nations which are difficult to forget and they <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-apology-not-regret-from-britain-says-kin-of-those-killed-in-jallianwala-bagh-massacre-209940">hold a very emotionally charged space in a nation's memory</a>," Navtej Sarna, a Sikh who has served as India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, told Reuters.

"We have an excellent relationship with the United Kingdom today but it's a question of assuaging sentiments and healing a wound which has been festering as part of our shared history." India gained independence from Britain in 1947.

Security in the city - also home to Sikhism's holiest shrine the Golden Temple - has been stepped up as hundreds of visitors and groups are likely to arrive at the site, Amritsar Police Commissioner S.S. Srivastava said.

Residents of the city, tourists, visitors, top government officials and students took part in the candle lit evening march from a building called Townhall to the massacre site.

The march of about one kilometre was accompanied by loudspeakers playing patriotic songs and onlookers thronged the roadsides. At the end of the march, people observed a two-minute silence.

Punjab state's Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and Governor V P Badnore took part in the march while Rahul Gandhi, president of the opposition Congress party, was expected to visit the city later in the evening.

Hundreds of people holding candles and the national flag marched through the northern Indian city of Amritsar on Friday, on the eve of the centenary of the colonial-era Jallianwala Bagh massacre that British Prime Minister Theresa May has called a "shameful scar.

Hundreds of people holding candles and the national flag marched through the northern Indian city of Amritsar on Friday, on the eve of the centenary of the colonial-era Jallianwala Bagh massacre that British Prime Minister Theresa May has called a "shameful scar." On April 13, 1919, some 50 British Indian army soldiers began shooting at unarmed civilians who were taking part in a peaceful protest against oppressive laws enforced in the Punjab region. At least 379 Sikhs were killed, according to the official record, although local residents said in the past the toll was far higher. The massacre took place in the walled enclosure of Jallianwala Bagh, which is still pocked with bullet marks. The massacre became a symbol of colonial cruelty and for decades Indians have demanded an apology from Britain, including during Queen Elizabeth's visit to Amritsar in 1997. On Wednesday, May told the British parliament that "the tragedy of Jallianwala Bagh in 1919 is a shameful scar on British Indian history", but she did not issue a formal apology. In 2013, then British Prime Minister David Cameron described the killings as a "deeply shameful event" in a visitor book at the site, now marked by a 46-foot (14-metre) high flame-shaped memorial. "There are events in the histories of nations which are difficult to forget and they hold a very emotionally charged space in a nation's memory," Navtej Sarna, a Sikh who has served as India's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, told Reuters. "We have an excellent relationship with the United Kingdom today but it's a question of assuaging sentiments and healing a wound which has been festering as part of our shared history." India gained independence from Britain in 1947. Security in the city - also home to Sikhism's holiest shrine the Golden Temple - has been stepped up as hundreds of visitors and groups are likely to arrive at the site, Amritsar Police Commissioner S.S. Srivastava said. Residents of the city, tourists, visitors, top government officials and students took part in the candle lit evening march from a building called Townhall to the massacre site. The march of about one kilometre was accompanied by loudspeakers playing patriotic songs and onlookers thronged the roadsides. At the end of the march, people observed a two-minute silence. Punjab state's Chief Minister Amarinder Singh and Governor V P Badnore took part in the march while Rahul Gandhi, president of the opposition Congress party, was expected to visit the city later in the evening.

Amritsar: Hundreds take candle march to commemorate Jallianwala Bagh massacre centenary

Good works of mine and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government at the Centre will help me win this Lok Sabha election again, said actor-turned-politician Hema Malini on Saturday.

"I am very confident of my win because I have done good works. My government has also done good work. So I am sure people will support us," said Malini in an exclusive interview to ANI.

She also expressed confidence that the next government at the Centre will again be formed by the BJP under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi.

"The whole system is changing. People want development. They want quick decisions to be taken for whatever is happening in the country. People belonging to different castes -- all want PM Modi," she said.

In the last Lok Sabha elections in 2014, Malini, who is also popular among masses as 'Basanti'&nbsp;for her stellar role in blockbuster 'Sholay,'&nbsp;had defeated the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Jayant Chaudhary by a margin of over three lakh votes.

When asked if SP-BSP-RLD alliance candidate Narendra Singh will queer the pitch for her this time by eating into Jat votes, she said, "I am sure that he will get some votes. But I will get much more votes than him because I have worked for everybody irrespective of his caste. For me, all the people are Brijwasis."

Talking about Union Minister Maneka Gandhi's controversial speech at Sultanpur, she said, "On the issue of Triple Talaq, many minority community women support us. Even if they do not, you have to help everybody. It does not matter who voted for us and who did not. This kind of feeling does not come to me."

Union Minister Gandhi on Friday, while addressing an election rally at Turab Khani village in Sultanpur from where she is contesting the Lok Sabha poll this time, told Muslims that she was all set to win and that they should vote for her as they would need her help in future.

"I am winning...But if my victory is without support from Muslims, I will not feel that good. Then when a Muslim comes to me for work, I think let it be. How does it matter," Union Minister Gandhi had said.

When asked if being an actor has helped her in politics, said, "People are able to recognise me. They at least listen to me. Other leaders have to work hard to reach out to the people."

In response to the way she was trolled on social media for reaping the wheat crop during her campaign in a village in Mathura, Hema Malini said, "I felt like doing that and I do not think that there was any problem."

"I go to the field. I work for my farmers in Mathura and help them so much. I have a right to enter the field. I had gone there just to take a picture. It was a pleasure to have the picture," she said.

Talking about the works done for her constituency in the past five years, Hema Malini said, "I have provided water, electricity facility to all areas in the constituency. I have also got a passport office open in Mathura. Earlier the people had to go to Aligarh or other towns for making passports. Roads have been widened. Connectivity has improved a lot," she said.

Election to Mathura Lok Sabha constituency is slated to be held in the second phase of seven-phased General Elections on April 18. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.&nbsp;

Good works of mine and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government at the Centre will help me win this Lok Sabha election again, said actor-turned-politician Hema Malini on Saturday.

Good works of mine and that of Prime Minister Narendra Modi led NDA government at the Centre will help me win this Lok Sabha election again, said actor-turned-politician Hema Malini on Saturday. "I am very confident of my win because I have done good works. My government has also done good work. So I am sure people will support us," said Malini in an exclusive interview to ANI. She also expressed confidence that the next government at the Centre will again be formed by the BJP under the leadership of Prime Minister Modi. "The whole system is changing. People want development. They want quick decisions to be taken for whatever is happening in the country. People belonging to different castes -- all want PM Modi," she said. In the last Lok Sabha elections in 2014, Malini, who is also popular among masses as 'Basanti' for her stellar role in blockbuster 'Sholay,' had defeated the Rashtriya Lok Dal (RLD) leader Jayant Chaudhary by a margin of over three lakh votes. When asked if SP-BSP-RLD alliance candidate Narendra Singh will queer the pitch for her this time by eating into Jat votes, she said, "I am sure that he will get some votes. But I will get much more votes than him because I have worked for everybody irrespective of his caste. For me, all the people are Brijwasis." Talking about Union Minister Maneka Gandhi's controversial speech at Sultanpur, she said, "On the issue of Triple Talaq, many minority community women support us. Even if they do not, you have to help everybody. It does not matter who voted for us and who did not. This kind of feeling does not come to me." Union Minister Gandhi on Friday, while addressing an election rally at Turab Khani village in Sultanpur from where she is contesting the Lok Sabha poll this time, told Muslims that she was all set to win and that they should vote for her as they would need her help in future. "I am winning...But if my victory is without support from Muslims, I will not feel that good. Then when a Muslim comes to me for work, I think let it be. How does it matter," Union Minister Gandhi had said. When asked if being an actor has helped her in politics, said, "People are able to recognise me. They at least listen to me. Other leaders have to work hard to reach out to the people." In response to the way she was trolled on social media for reaping the wheat crop during her campaign in a village in Mathura, Hema Malini said, "I felt like doing that and I do not think that there was any problem." "I go to the field. I work for my farmers in Mathura and help them so much. I have a right to enter the field. I had gone there just to take a picture. It was a pleasure to have the picture," she said. Talking about the works done for her constituency in the past five years, Hema Malini said, "I have provided water, electricity facility to all areas in the constituency. I have also got a passport office open in Mathura. Earlier the people had to go to Aligarh or other towns for making passports. Roads have been widened. Connectivity has improved a lot," she said. Election to Mathura Lok Sabha constituency is slated to be held in the second phase of seven-phased General Elections on April 18. The counting of votes will take place on May 23.

Good works of mine, PM Modi will help me win Lok Sabha polls again, says Hema Malini

Jet Airways crew members and air hostesses have applied for new jobs in the national carrier -- Air India.

A few days back, Air India had announced the recruitment of crew members in its fleet.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/pmo-calls-for-urgent-meeting-to-discuss-jet-airways-situation-209874">Debt-laden Jet Airways</a>, facing the worst time in 25 years, on Friday announced the suspension of international flights till Monday (April 15) due to the non-payment of outstanding bills to its lessors.

Air India spokesperson said,&nbsp;"AI is looking for 1,200 crew members. In the first phase after the written test, 514 crew members have been short-listed. The recruitment process is under process."

Sources in Air India also said,&nbsp;"Around 150 crew members have applied for jobs from Jet Airways. Most of the crew has been shortlisted, but the selection of those crew is yet to be finalised."Not only Jet Airways, sources said in Air India, that applicants are also from Vistara as Vistara crew members are looking for international routes, which the airline has not yet started.

Air India has faced crew shortage for its long haul flights like flights to New York and San Francisco. Air India has currently around 4,000 crew members.&nbsp; 
&nbsp;

Jet Airways crew members and air hostesses have applied for new jobs in the national carrier -- Air India. A few days back, Air India had announced the recruitment of crew members in its fleet.

Jet Airways crew members and air hostesses have applied for new jobs in the national carrier -- Air India. A few days back, Air India had announced the recruitment of crew members in its fleet. Debt-laden Jet Airways, facing the worst time in 25 years, on Friday announced the suspension of international flights till Monday (April 15) due to the non-payment of outstanding bills to its lessors. Air India spokesperson said, "AI is looking for 1,200 crew members. In the first phase after the written test, 514 crew members have been short-listed. The recruitment process is under process." Sources in Air India also said, "Around 150 crew members have applied for jobs from Jet Airways. Most of the crew has been shortlisted, but the selection of those crew is yet to be finalised."Not only Jet Airways, sources said in Air India, that applicants are also from Vistara as Vistara crew members are looking for international routes, which the airline has not yet started. Air India has faced crew shortage for its long haul flights like flights to New York and San Francisco. Air India has currently around 4,000 crew members.

Jet Airways employees flood Air India with job applications

US Senators John Cornyn and Mark Warner have asked the US State Department to <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/trump-urged-to-delay-decision-on-ending-preferential-trade-deal-with-india-206407">delay the issuance of a Presidential proclamation to withdraw India's GSP benefit</a> "by at least 30 days" beyond the stipulated time in order to move negotiations beyond ongoing elections, which may "serve as a hindrance" for the Indian side.

In a letter addressed to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, the co-chairs of the United States Senate's India Caucus said,&nbsp;"As you know, India's elections will conclude on May 23, 2019. We believe that the election season may serve as a hindrance for our Indian counterparts in negotiating and concluding a deal on difficult political issues."

"If another round of negotiations during the election season does not resolve the outstanding issues, we would ask you to consider delaying the issuance of a Presidential proclamation to withdraw India's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/i-intend-to-end-indias-preferential-trade-treatment-under-gsp-program-trump-201179">Generalised System of Preferences</a> (GSP) benefits by at least 30 days, beyond the 60 day calendar, in order to move the negotiations beyond India's elections," the co-signed letter, sent on April 12, read.

"We believe that allowing for continued negotiations beyond the elections would underscore the importance of this bilateral relationship and provide a real opportunity to resolve these market access issues, potentially improving the overall US-India relationship for years to come," the two Senators wrote.

This comes as US President Donald Trump announced his decision to withdraw India from the list of countries enjoying the GSP program on goods exported to the US last month.

Trump cited India's non-compliance with the statutory eligibility criteria as the reason behind the decision.

Under the GSP or zero-tariff policy measures, India enjoys tariff concession costing to $5.6 billion of exports to the US. India has been the world's largest beneficiary of the GSP scheme that has been in force since the 1970s.

The two Senators highlighted that the US decision would affect American consumers.

"While we agree that there are a number of market access issues that can and should be addressed, we do remain concerned that the withdrawal of duty concessions will make Indian exports of eligible products to the United States costlier, as the importer of those products will have to pay a "Most Favored Nation" (MFN), duty which is higher than the rate under GSP. Some of these costs will likely be passed on to American consumers," the letter stated.

US Senators John Cornyn and Mark Warner have asked the US State Department to delay the issuance of a Presidential proclamation to withdraw India's GSP benefit "by at least 30 days" beyond the stipulated time in order to move negotiations beyond ongoing elections, which may "serve as a hindrance" for the Indian side.

US Senators John Cornyn and Mark Warner have asked the US State Department to delay the issuance of a Presidential proclamation to withdraw India's GSP benefit "by at least 30 days" beyond the stipulated time in order to move negotiations beyond ongoing elections, which may "serve as a hindrance" for the Indian side. In a letter addressed to US Trade Representative Robert Lighthizer, the co-chairs of the United States Senate's India Caucus said, "As you know, India's elections will conclude on May 23, 2019. We believe that the election season may serve as a hindrance for our Indian counterparts in negotiating and concluding a deal on difficult political issues." "If another round of negotiations during the election season does not resolve the outstanding issues, we would ask you to consider delaying the issuance of a Presidential proclamation to withdraw India's Generalised System of Preferences (GSP) benefits by at least 30 days, beyond the 60 day calendar, in order to move the negotiations beyond India's elections," the co-signed letter, sent on April 12, read. "We believe that allowing for continued negotiations beyond the elections would underscore the importance of this bilateral relationship and provide a real opportunity to resolve these market access issues, potentially improving the overall US-India relationship for years to come," the two Senators wrote. This comes as US President Donald Trump announced his decision to withdraw India from the list of countries enjoying the GSP program on goods exported to the US last month. Trump cited India's non-compliance with the statutory eligibility criteria as the reason behind the decision. Under the GSP or zero-tariff policy measures, India enjoys tariff concession costing to $5.6 billion of exports to the US. India has been the world's largest beneficiary of the GSP scheme that has been in force since the 1970s. The two Senators highlighted that the US decision would affect American consumers. "While we agree that there are a number of market access issues that can and should be addressed, we do remain concerned that the withdrawal of duty concessions will make Indian exports of eligible products to the United States costlier, as the importer of those products will have to pay a "Most Favored Nation" (MFN), duty which is higher than the rate under GSP. Some of these costs will likely be passed on to American consumers," the letter stated.

Delay Generalised System of Preferences eligibility decision till Indian elections: US

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jnu-sedition-case-police-filed-charge-sheet-secretly-in-hasty-manner-delhi-govt-tells-court-208087">sedition law</a> as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent."

Earlier on April 3, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also lambasted the Congress for promising to scrap the law.

Speaking at an election rally, Yogi had said, "It is shameful that the Congress in its manifesto has promised to scrap the provision on sedition, which is used against terrorists and those involved in terror activities if the party comes to power."

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/sonia-gandhi-questions-congress-manifesto-cover-for-its-dark-colour-207673">Congress</a> has promised in its <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/congress-unveils-manifesto-titled-congress-will-deliver-207408">manifesto</a> to remove the sedition law to give a "fillip to freedom of expression" in the country.

The provision for sedition under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code says, "Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine."

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term.

Union Home Minister Rajnath Singh on Friday slammed Congress for its stand on sedition law as mentioned in party's manifesto and asserted that BJP will make it even more stringent after forming a government for a second term. Addressing an election rally, Singh said, "If someone tries to break India, should they be forgiven? They say they will end the sedition law, to whom are they giving a signal? If our government comes to power we will make the sedition law even more stringent." Earlier on April 3, Uttar Pradesh Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath had also lambasted the Congress for promising to scrap the law. Speaking at an election rally, Yogi had said, "It is shameful that the Congress in its manifesto has promised to scrap the provision on sedition, which is used against terrorists and those involved in terror activities if the party comes to power." Congress has promised in its manifesto to remove the sedition law to give a "fillip to freedom of expression" in the country. The provision for sedition under Section 124A of the Indian Penal Code says, "Whoever, by words, either spoken or written, or by signs, or by visible representation, or otherwise, brings or attempts to bring into hatred or contempt, or excites or attempts to excite disaffection towards the Government established by law shall be punished with imprisonment for life, to which fine may be added, or with imprisonment which may extend to three years, to which fine may be added, or with fine."

BJP will make sedition law even more stringent: Rajnath Singh

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/irans-authorities-show-off-nuclear-advances-despite-us-sanctions-210084">Iran shows off nuclear advances despite US sanctions; insists its nuclear program is peaceful</a>

Iranian authorities showcased what they said were 114 advances in their domestic nuclear technology industry achieved over the course of a year despite the United States decision to unilaterally withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/belt-and-road-forum-to-enable-china-to-establish-its-direction-policy-framework-imf-chief-210055">IMF chief lauds Belt and Road Initiative, says it focuses on financing global infrastructure</a>

The Belt and Road Forum will be a good opportunity for China to identify its direction and the policy framework within which they want to develop this very large initiative, IMF chief Christine Lagarde said in Washington, DC ahead of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/world/kim-jon-un-gains-more-power-in-north-korea-leadership-shuffle-210060">Kim Jon Un gains more power in North Korea leadership shuffle</a>

North Korea has replaced its long-serving head of state with a close aide to leader Kim Jong Un, promoting a man who was placed on a US sanctions list last year for alleged human rights abuses, state media said Friday.

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/sports/live-ipl-2019-mumbai-vs-rajasthan-210054">Live | IPL 2019: Mumbai vs Rajasthan</a>

Boundaries are raining for Rajasthan and the credit of it goes to Jos Buttler. Mumbai are stunned and don't know how to stop him.&nbsp;

Jos Buttler once again rose to the occasion and smashed a brilliant half century to keep Rajasthan in the chase.&nbsp;

<a href="https://www.wionews.com/entertainment/dont-like-surprises-artificial-intelligence-predicts-who-survives-game-of-thrones-210104">Don't like surprises? Artificial intelligence predicts who survives 'Game of Thrones'</a>

If you are a "Game of Thrones" fan and appreciate the element of surprise, stop reading now.

Students at the Technical University of Munich have developed an application to predict which character has the best chance to claim the coveted Iron Throne in the HBO hit medieval fantasy series about warring families.&nbsp;

Iran shows off nuclear advances despite US sanctions; insists its nuclear program is peaceful Iranian authorities showcased what they said were 114 advances in their domestic nuclear technology industry achieved over the course of a year despite the United States decision to unilaterally withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal.

Iran shows off nuclear advances despite US sanctions; insists its nuclear program is peaceful Iranian authorities showcased what they said were 114 advances in their domestic nuclear technology industry achieved over the course of a year despite the United States decision to unilaterally withdraw from the 2015 nuclear deal. IMF chief lauds Belt and Road Initiative, says it focuses on financing global infrastructure The Belt and Road Forum will be a good opportunity for China to identify its direction and the policy framework within which they want to develop this very large initiative, IMF chief Christine Lagarde said in Washington, DC ahead of the World Bank-IMF Spring Meetings. Kim Jon Un gains more power in North Korea leadership shuffle North Korea has replaced its long-serving head of state with a close aide to leader Kim Jong Un, promoting a man who was placed on a US sanctions list last year for alleged human rights abuses, state media said Friday. Live | IPL 2019: Mumbai vs Rajasthan Boundaries are raining for Rajasthan and the credit of it goes to Jos Buttler. Mumbai are stunned and don't know how to stop him. Jos Buttler once again rose to the occasion and smashed a brilliant half century to keep Rajasthan in the chase. Don't like surprises? Artificial intelligence predicts who survives 'Game of Thrones' If you are a "Game of Thrones" fan and appreciate the element of surprise, stop reading now. Students at the Technical University of Munich have developed an application to predict which character has the best chance to claim the coveted Iron Throne in the HBO hit medieval fantasy series about warring families.

A museum in the UK has launched an exhibition on <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/jallianwala-bagh-british-high-commissioner-lays-wreath-on-commemoration-of-100-years-of-massacre-209988">Jallianwala Bagh</a> in collaboration with the Partition Museum in Amritsar to mark the centenary of the British colonial era massacre.

Jallianwala Bagh 1919: Punjab Under Siege' opened at Manchester Museum in time for Saturday's <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/want-apology-not-regret-from-britain-says-kin-of-those-killed-in-jallianwala-bagh-massacre-209940">100th anniversary of the tragedy</a> that affected thousands.

The exhibition is conceived as a lived experience creation, based on work with descendants and communities to collect stories related to the&nbsp; 
Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919.

Revisiting the event, its causes and aftermath, the nuanced exhibition explores what we remember, how we remember it, and what we have forgotten, in India and the UK, Manchester Museum said in a statement.

Protestors had gathered to challenge British rule before they were set upon by Colonel Reginald Dyer and his troops. Confined within an enclosed barren ground called Jallianwala Bagh in the Indian city of Amritsar, hundreds of Indians were killed and thousands injured. This was a defining moment in the fight for Indian independence and led to the eventual demise of the British Empire in South Asia, it adds.

The exhibition, supported by the Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCCC), comprising prominent Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs), is aimed at raising awareness around the peaceful protest to mark Baisakhi, the divergent British and Indian inquiry findings, and the ongoing social, political, and cultural response.

It is an apt moment for the British government to offer an apology to India, Manjit Singh GK, Patron-in-Chief of the JBCCC, said.

Both Secretary of State for War Sir Winston Churchill and former Prime Minister H H Asquith openly condemned the attack at the time, referring to it as monstrous and one of the worst outrages in the whole of our history,&nbsp; 
added Vikramjit S Sahney, Patron of JBCC.

There have been widespread calls for a formal apology to mark the 100th anniversary of the massacre this week, with the UK government earlier indicating that it was "reflecting" on the demand.

British Prime Minister Theresa May made a statement in the House of Commons earlier this week to say the UK deeply regrets the tragedy, which she described as a shameful scar on British Indian history.

The statement faced criticism for not going far enough, with the Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn demanding a full, clear and unequivocal apology.

The wounds of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre still haunt millions and should be laid to rest at this the centenary of the horrendous act, Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma, Chair of the Indo-British All Party Parliamentary Group, said in the Commons.

I appreciate the Prime Minister's comments, and thank her for her earnest words, but they are only the beginning of an apology not the full and frank formal apology that the communities affected need. I would also like to offer my fullest thanks to Jeremy Corbyn for his words of support, and his commitment to a full apology when he becomes Prime Minister, he said.

The Jallianwala Bagh massacre has found prominence in the UK parliamentary agenda in recent months as both the House of Lords and Commons held debates to mark the centenary.

In their capacity as JBCCC members, Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had written to the British PM calling for an apology and will be marking the 100th anniversary with a special event in the House of Lords on Saturday night.&nbsp;

A museum in the UK has launched an exhibition on Jallianwala Bagh in collaboration with the Partition Museum in Amritsar to mark the centenary of the British colonial era massacre.

A museum in the UK has launched an exhibition on Jallianwala Bagh in collaboration with the Partition Museum in Amritsar to mark the centenary of the British colonial era massacre. Jallianwala Bagh 1919: Punjab Under Siege' opened at Manchester Museum in time for Saturday's 100th anniversary of the tragedy that affected thousands. The exhibition is conceived as a lived experience creation, based on work with descendants and communities to collect stories related to the Jallianwala Bagh massacre on April 13, 1919. Revisiting the event, its causes and aftermath, the nuanced exhibition explores what we remember, how we remember it, and what we have forgotten, in India and the UK, Manchester Museum said in a statement. Protestors had gathered to challenge British rule before they were set upon by Colonel Reginald Dyer and his troops. Confined within an enclosed barren ground called Jallianwala Bagh in the Indian city of Amritsar, hundreds of Indians were killed and thousands injured. This was a defining moment in the fight for Indian independence and led to the eventual demise of the British Empire in South Asia, it adds. The exhibition, supported by the Jallianwala Bagh Centenary Commemoration Committee (JBCCC), comprising prominent Indians and non-resident Indians (NRIs), is aimed at raising awareness around the peaceful protest to mark Baisakhi, the divergent British and Indian inquiry findings, and the ongoing social, political, and cultural response. It is an apt moment for the British government to offer an apology to India, Manjit Singh GK, Patron-in-Chief of the JBCCC, said. Both Secretary of State for War Sir Winston Churchill and former Prime Minister H H Asquith openly condemned the attack at the time, referring to it as monstrous and one of the worst outrages in the whole of our history, added Vikramjit S Sahney, Patron of JBCC. There have been widespread calls for a formal apology to mark the 100th anniversary of the massacre this week, with the UK government earlier indicating that it was "reflecting" on the demand. British Prime Minister Theresa May made a statement in the House of Commons earlier this week to say the UK deeply regrets the tragedy, which she described as a shameful scar on British Indian history. The statement faced criticism for not going far enough, with the Opposition Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn demanding a full, clear and unequivocal apology. The wounds of the Jallianwala Bagh Massacre still haunt millions and should be laid to rest at this the centenary of the horrendous act, Veteran Indian-origin Labour MP Virendra Sharma, Chair of the Indo-British All Party Parliamentary Group, said in the Commons. I appreciate the Prime Minister's comments, and thank her for her earnest words, but they are only the beginning of an apology not the full and frank formal apology that the communities affected need. I would also like to offer my fullest thanks to Jeremy Corbyn for his words of support, and his commitment to a full apology when he becomes Prime Minister, he said. The Jallianwala Bagh massacre has found prominence in the UK parliamentary agenda in recent months as both the House of Lords and Commons held debates to mark the centenary. In their capacity as JBCCC members, Indian-origin peers Lord Meghnad Desai and Lord Raj Loomba had written to the British PM calling for an apology and will be marking the 100th anniversary with a special event in the House of Lords on Saturday night.

UK museum launches Jallianwala Bagh exhibition to mark 100th anniversary

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-2019-ysrs-jagan-slams-chandrababu-naidu-for-ignoring-needs-of-poor-and-middle-class-209107">N Chandrababu Naidu</a>&nbsp;on Saturday demanded the <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/election-commission-should-work-in-unbiased-manner-andhra-cm-chandrababu-naidu-on-transfer-of-state-chief-secretary-208289">Election Commission of India (ECI)</a> revert to the ballot system. The move comes&nbsp;just a couple of days after the general polls&nbsp;were conducted for 91 Lok Sabha seats on Thursday, along with state assembly elections including in Andhra Pradesh.&nbsp;

Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy."

The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI earlier today over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections.

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Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu after a meeting with EC officials: Govt of India is interfering through EC. We have complained against EVMs earlier also. EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. Transfers of officers in AP is unjustified. <a href="https://t.co/HD2JxWckPC">pic.twitter.com/HD2JxWckPC</a>
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"We demand the Election Commission of India for reverting to paper ballot system immediately to preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of electoral process and democracy respectively," Naidu said in a letter written to the Chief Election Commissioner.&nbsp;

"I wish to bring to your notice a series of malafide actions of Election Commission of India in managing the election process in Andhra Pradesh that gave rise to serious doubts that the constitutional duties of this great institution are not performed with objectivity, impartiality and, professionalism," he said.

Naidu also claimed that there was inadequate police force at the polling booths despite the request made by the Andhra Pradesh Police Department.

"To aggravate the matters further, the inadequate security arrangements at polling booths, emboldened the criminal elements that resulted in many law and order incidents which resulted in not only loss of lives and injuries but also terrorized the peace-loving voters to come out freely and vote," the Chief Minister said.

Naidu alleged the government of India of "interfering through the ECI".&nbsp;

"We have complained against EVMs earlier also. The EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. The transfer of officers in Andhra Pradesh are unjustified."

On April 11, all 25 Lok Sabha seats went to polls in Andhra Pradesh, whereas the state also voted for its 175 Assembly seats. Naidu had requested the EC for an extension of polling time in the state after polling in a few districts of Andhra Pradesh was disrupted briefly due to malfunctioning of EVMs.&nbsp;

 
&nbsp;

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system.

Andhra Pradesh chief minister and Telugu Desam Party chief N Chandrababu Naidu on Saturday demanded the Election Commission of India (ECI) revert to the ballot system. The move comes just a couple of days after the general polls were conducted for 91 Lok Sabha seats on Thursday, along with state assembly elections including in Andhra Pradesh. Naidu raised questions over the efficacy of the electronic voting machines (EVM) and said that going back to the paper system should be done immediately to "preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of the electoral process and democracy." The TDP supremo met officials of the ECI earlier today over the issue of EVM malfunctioning in the ongoing Lok Sabha elections. Andhra Pradesh CM Chandrababu Naidu after a meeting with EC officials: Govt of India is interfering through EC. We have complained against EVMs earlier also. EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. Transfers of officers in AP is unjustified. pic.twitter.com/HD2JxWckPC — ANI (@ANI) April 13, 2019 × "We demand the Election Commission of India for reverting to paper ballot system immediately to preserve the sanctity and protect the spirit of electoral process and democracy respectively," Naidu said in a letter written to the Chief Election Commissioner. "I wish to bring to your notice a series of malafide actions of Election Commission of India in managing the election process in Andhra Pradesh that gave rise to serious doubts that the constitutional duties of this great institution are not performed with objectivity, impartiality and, professionalism," he said. Naidu also claimed that there was inadequate police force at the polling booths despite the request made by the Andhra Pradesh Police Department. "To aggravate the matters further, the inadequate security arrangements at polling booths, emboldened the criminal elements that resulted in many law and order incidents which resulted in not only loss of lives and injuries but also terrorized the peace-loving voters to come out freely and vote," the Chief Minister said. Naidu alleged the government of India of "interfering through the ECI". "We have complained against EVMs earlier also. The EC is an autonomous body but they are working at the instructions of Modi. The transfer of officers in Andhra Pradesh are unjustified." On April 11, all 25 Lok Sabha seats went to polls in Andhra Pradesh, whereas the state also voted for its 175 Assembly seats. Naidu had requested the EC for an extension of polling time in the state after polling in a few districts of Andhra Pradesh was disrupted briefly due to malfunctioning of EVMs.

Just a couple of days after polls, Chandrababu Naidu raises questions over EVMs; asks Election Commission to revert to ballot system

'Siachen Warriors'&nbsp;Brigade of Fire and Fury Corps on Saturday celebrated the 35th Siachen Day with traditional solemnity and reverence.

Every year, the day honours all the Siachen Warriors who served their motherland while successfully thwarting evil designs of the enemy, over the years.

Brigadier Bhupesh Hada paid homage to the slain personnel at the Siachen War Memorial, in commemoration of the courage and fortitude displayed by troops of the Indian Army in securing the highest and coldest battlefield in the world.

On this day in 1984, the Indian Army secured Bilafond La and other passes on the Saltoro Ridgeline, thus launching 'Operation Meghdoot'.

Since then, it has been a saga of courage and fortitude in the face of a belligerent enemy, arduous terrain and challenging climate conditions.

To this day, the Siachen Warriors continue to guard the 'Frozen Frontier'&nbsp;with tenacity and resolve against all odds.&nbsp;

'Siachen Warriors' Brigade of Fire and Fury Corps on Saturday celebrated the 35th Siachen Day with traditional solemnity and reverence. Every year, the day honours all the Siachen Warriors who served their motherland while successfully thwarting evil designs of the enemy, over the years.

'Siachen Warriors' Brigade of Fire and Fury Corps on Saturday celebrated the 35th Siachen Day with traditional solemnity and reverence. Every year, the day honours all the Siachen Warriors who served their motherland while successfully thwarting evil designs of the enemy, over the years. Brigadier Bhupesh Hada paid homage to the slain personnel at the Siachen War Memorial, in commemoration of the courage and fortitude displayed by troops of the Indian Army in securing the highest and coldest battlefield in the world. On this day in 1984, the Indian Army secured Bilafond La and other passes on the Saltoro Ridgeline, thus launching 'Operation Meghdoot'. Since then, it has been a saga of courage and fortitude in the face of a belligerent enemy, arduous terrain and challenging climate conditions. To this day, the Siachen Warriors continue to guard the 'Frozen Frontier' with tenacity and resolve against all odds.

35th Siachen Day: Nation remembers heroes, operation 'Meghdoot'

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on <a href="https://www.google.com/url?q=https://www.wionews.com/india-news/mai-bhi-chowkidar-campaign-pm-modi-to-address-thousands-through-video-conference-206897&amp;sa=U&amp;ved=0ahUKEwiy3KDWv8zhAhUVS48KHSZ0A60QFggFMAA&amp;client=internal-uds-cse&amp;cx=006054055338965708568:09spwrlibei&amp;usg=AOvVaw12SsvHpS2ILFqTYyvfpASn">NaMo TV</a> be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said.&nbsp;

The poll body had on Thursday said since NaMo TV was sponsored by the BJP, all recorded programmes displayed on the platform should be pre-certified by media certification and monitoring committee of Delhi and all political publicity contents displayed without pre-certification be removed immediately.

Following the EC's directive, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Delhi wrote to the saffron party to ensure that all political content not approved be removed.&nbsp;

"As a precautionary measure, two officials have been deployed to watch NaMo TV and monitor its content," officials said.

An official said political parties usually submit audiovisual content for pre-certification, without specifying on which platform it will be aired.&nbsp;

The content may be aired during a rally or on the party's website, he said.

After the Congress filed a complaint with the poll panel about the channel disturbing the level playing field, the EC had asked the Delhi CEO to file a report on the issue.

The Delhi CEO approved the logo of NaMo TV, which the BJP said was part of the NaMo App that it owns, but did not "certify" the content as it contained old speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on NaMo TV be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said.

A day after the Election Commission directed that all recorded programmes displayed on NaMo TV be pre-certified, the Delhi poll body has directed the BJP not to air any content on the platform without its certification, officials said. The poll body had on Thursday said since NaMo TV was sponsored by the BJP, all recorded programmes displayed on the platform should be pre-certified by media certification and monitoring committee of Delhi and all political publicity contents displayed without pre-certification be removed immediately. Following the EC's directive, the Chief Electoral Officer (CEO), Delhi wrote to the saffron party to ensure that all political content not approved be removed. "As a precautionary measure, two officials have been deployed to watch NaMo TV and monitor its content," officials said. An official said political parties usually submit audiovisual content for pre-certification, without specifying on which platform it will be aired. The content may be aired during a rally or on the party's website, he said. After the Congress filed a complaint with the poll panel about the channel disturbing the level playing field, the EC had asked the Delhi CEO to file a report on the issue. The Delhi CEO approved the logo of NaMo TV, which the BJP said was part of the NaMo App that it owns, but did not "certify" the content as it contained old speeches of Prime Minister Narendra Modi.

Delhi CEO directs BJP to not air content on NaMo TV without certification

A US&nbsp;plan to end preferential <a href="https://www.wionews.com/americas/50-indian-items-face-heat-as-us-revokes-duty-free-privileges-on-import-of-90-products-174895">duty-free imports</a> of up to $5.6 billion from India could raise costs for American consumers, two US&nbsp;senators have told their country's trade office, urging a delay in adopting the plan, and seeking more negotiations.

If President Donald Trump presses ahead with his plan to end the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for India, it could lose the status in early May, <a href="https://www.wionews.com/business-economy/trade-ministry-proposes-delaying-retaliatory-tariffs-on-us-goods-206590">Indian officials </a>have said, raising the prospect of retaliatory tariffs.

India is the world's largest beneficiary of the GSP, dating from the 1970s, but trade ties with the US&nbsp;have widened over what Trump calls its high tariffs and concerns over New Delhi's e-commerce policies.

"While we agree that there are a number of market access issues that can and should be addressed, we do remain concerned that the withdrawal of duty concessions will make Indian exports of eligible products to the United States costlier," the senators, John Cornyn and Mark Warner, wrote.

"Some of these costs will likely be passed on to American consumers".

In their Friday letter, the co-chairs of the Senate's India caucus of more than 30 senators called for withdrawal to be delayed until the end of India's 39-day general elections, which began on Thursday, with results expected on May 23.

Allowing for talks to continue beyond the elections would underscore the importance of the trade ties, presenting an opportunity to resolve market access issues and improve the overall US-India relationship for years to come, they added.

If the United States scraps duty-free access for about 2,000 product lines, it will mostly hurt small and medium businesses in India, such as makers of engineering goods.

Despite close political ties, trade between India and the United States, which stood at $126 billion in 2017, is widely seen to be performing at nearly a quarter of its potential.

Trade relations suffered in the past few months after India adopted new rules on e-commerce reining in how companies such as Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Inc-backed Flipkart do business.

Last June, India said it would step up import duties varying from 20 per cent to 120 per cent on a slew of U.S. farm, steel and iron products, angered by Washington's refusal to exempt it from new steel and aluminium tariffs.

But it has since repeatedly delayed adopting the higher duties.

A US plan to end preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from India could raise costs for American consumers, two US senators have told their country's trade office, urging a delay in adopting the plan, and seeking more negotiations.

A US plan to end preferential duty-free imports of up to $5.6 billion from India could raise costs for American consumers, two US senators have told their country's trade office, urging a delay in adopting the plan, and seeking more negotiations. If President Donald Trump presses ahead with his plan to end the Generalized System of Preferences (GSP) for India, it could lose the status in early May, Indian officials have said, raising the prospect of retaliatory tariffs. India is the world's largest beneficiary of the GSP, dating from the 1970s, but trade ties with the US have widened over what Trump calls its high tariffs and concerns over New Delhi's e-commerce policies. "While we agree that there are a number of market access issues that can and should be addressed, we do remain concerned that the withdrawal of duty concessions will make Indian exports of eligible products to the United States costlier," the senators, John Cornyn and Mark Warner, wrote. "Some of these costs will likely be passed on to American consumers". In their Friday letter, the co-chairs of the Senate's India caucus of more than 30 senators called for withdrawal to be delayed until the end of India's 39-day general elections, which began on Thursday, with results expected on May 23. Allowing for talks to continue beyond the elections would underscore the importance of the trade ties, presenting an opportunity to resolve market access issues and improve the overall US-India relationship for years to come, they added. If the United States scraps duty-free access for about 2,000 product lines, it will mostly hurt small and medium businesses in India, such as makers of engineering goods. Despite close political ties, trade between India and the United States, which stood at $126 billion in 2017, is widely seen to be performing at nearly a quarter of its potential. Trade relations suffered in the past few months after India adopted new rules on e-commerce reining in how companies such as Amazon.com Inc and Walmart Inc-backed Flipkart do business. Last June, India said it would step up import duties varying from 20 per cent to 120 per cent on a slew of U.S. farm, steel and iron products, angered by Washington's refusal to exempt it from new steel and aluminium tariffs. But it has since repeatedly delayed adopting the higher duties.

Scrapping India's trade privileges could hit US consumers: Senators

Braving all odds, Election Commission (EC) officials in Arunachal Pradesh trekked 13,583 feet in Luguthang village to elections for Mukto Assembly Constituency.

Polling for 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh was held simultaneously on April 11. Counting of votes will take place on May 23.

"Polling parties in Arunachal Pradesh. 13583 feet altitude Luguthang - Mukto Assembly Constituency. Whatever the challenges - they do cross them all to reach the Voters afterall!" EC spokesperson Sheyphali Sharan tweeted on Saturday.

As 17th Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases from April 11 to May 19, officials and security personnel are trekking to remote areas of the country to set up poll booths.

In Arunachal, it took two days to reach several polling stations situated at inaccessible areas. Also, some of the polling officials were airlifted since they were deployed in isolated places.

There were 2,202 polling stations in the state for 7,98,249 voters. This year, the EC has taken several steps to add more service voters in the election process. Awareness campaigns through electronic, social, print and other media were given due attention.

According to EC officials, an estimated 66 per cent voters of the total of 7.98 lakh electorate cast their votes in the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday. However, the exact figures are yet to be revealed by the EC. 
&nbsp;

Braving all odds, Election Commission (EC) officials in Arunachal Pradesh trekked 13,583 feet in Luguthang village to elections for Mukto Assembly Constituency. Polling for 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh was held simultaneously on April 11.

Braving all odds, Election Commission (EC) officials in Arunachal Pradesh trekked 13,583 feet in Luguthang village to elections for Mukto Assembly Constituency. Polling for 60 Assembly constituencies and two Lok Sabha seats in Arunachal Pradesh was held simultaneously on April 11. Counting of votes will take place on May 23. "Polling parties in Arunachal Pradesh. 13583 feet altitude Luguthang - Mukto Assembly Constituency. Whatever the challenges - they do cross them all to reach the Voters afterall!" EC spokesperson Sheyphali Sharan tweeted on Saturday. As 17th Lok Sabha elections are being conducted in seven phases from April 11 to May 19, officials and security personnel are trekking to remote areas of the country to set up poll booths. In Arunachal, it took two days to reach several polling stations situated at inaccessible areas. Also, some of the polling officials were airlifted since they were deployed in isolated places. There were 2,202 polling stations in the state for 7,98,249 voters. This year, the EC has taken several steps to add more service voters in the election process. Awareness campaigns through electronic, social, print and other media were given due attention. According to EC officials, an estimated 66 per cent voters of the total of 7.98 lakh electorate cast their votes in the simultaneous Assembly and Lok Sabha elections in Arunachal Pradesh on Thursday. However, the exact figures are yet to be revealed by the EC.

Election Commission officials trek 13,583 feet to conduct polls in Arunachal

The Election Commission has issued a show-cause notice to Union Minister Maneka Gandhi for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur on Thursday.

Gandhi had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/vote-for-me-you-will-need-me-once-elections-are-over-maneka-gandhi-to-muslims-209857">"with or without" the support of Muslims</a> and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power.

"You have to recognise that this victory is sure without you and even with you, and you will have to spread the word," she had said while addressing an election rally.

BR Tiwari, Additional Chief Electoral Officer, said on Friday: "The EC has taken cognisance of the matter. District Magistrate, Sultanpur, has issued a show-cause notice to her and a report has been sent to the EC."

On the other hand, Maneka Gandhi said that she is quoted out of context.

"I had called a meeting of our minority cell. If you read my complete speech, the channel is running that one sentence out of context," she said.

Maneka is contesting from Sultanpur, and her son Varun Gandhi is contesting from Pilibhit.

The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases which started on April 11. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

The Election Commission has issued a show-cause notice to Union Minister Maneka Gandhi for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur on Thursday. Gandhi had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain "with or without" the support of Muslims and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power.

The Election Commission has issued a show-cause notice to Union Minister Maneka Gandhi for her remark during a poll speech in Sultanpur on Thursday. Gandhi had said that her win from Sultanpur Lok Sabha constituency is certain "with or without" the support of Muslims and the community should realise it since they will need to get their work done once the BJP is in power. "You have to recognise that this victory is sure without you and even with you, and you will have to spread the word," she had said while addressing an election rally. BR Tiwari, Additional Chief Electoral Officer, said on Friday: "The EC has taken cognisance of the matter. District Magistrate, Sultanpur, has issued a show-cause notice to her and a report has been sent to the EC." On the other hand, Maneka Gandhi said that she is quoted out of context. "I had called a meeting of our minority cell. If you read my complete speech, the channel is running that one sentence out of context," she said. Maneka is contesting from Sultanpur, and her son Varun Gandhi is contesting from Pilibhit. The polling in Uttar Pradesh will be held in all seven phases which started on April 11. The counting of votes will be held on May 23.

Election commission issues show-cause notice to Maneka Gandhi for her 'controversial' speech

Curfew remained in force in Kishtwar town of Jammu and Kashmir for the fifth day on Saturday after an <a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/rss-worker-chandrakant-sharma-pso-killed-by-terrorists-in-jammu-and-kashmir-curfew-imposed-209047">RSS leader was shot dead</a> by militants in the communally-sensitive region earlier this week, officials said.

Internet services continued to be suspended as a precautionary measure in the district, but it was restored in nearby Doda and Ramban districts on Friday night, the officials said.

"Curfew is being strictly implemented in the town and adjoining areas to maintain law and order," Kishtwar District Development Commissioner A S Rana told PTI.

Army columns are assisting the CRPF and the police, the official said.

The curfew was promulgated in the town and adjoining areas on Tuesday after RSS leader Chanderkant Sharma and his security guard was shot dead by militants at a health centre.

Minor protests were reported from some interior localities, but the situation remained well under control, the officials said.

Some people, who were allowed to visit temples in the interior localities for the Ram Navami festival, raised slogans and later dispersed off peacefully, the officials said.

There was no violation of curfew reported from anywhere, the officials said.

"The situation will be reviewed later in the day to take a decision about the relaxation for the day," Rana said.

The curfew was relaxed in a phased manner, for the first time since its imposition, on Friday evening.

Police had picked up several overground workers for interrogation in connection with the incident and massive house-to-house searches were also going on.

Curfew remained in force in Kishtwar town of Jammu and Kashmir for the fifth day on Saturday after an RSS leader was shot dead by militants in the communally-sensitive region earlier this week, officials said.

Curfew remained in force in Kishtwar town of Jammu and Kashmir for the fifth day on Saturday after an RSS leader was shot dead by militants in the communally-sensitive region earlier this week, officials said. Internet services continued to be suspended as a precautionary measure in the district, but it was restored in nearby Doda and Ramban districts on Friday night, the officials said. "Curfew is being strictly implemented in the town and adjoining areas to maintain law and order," Kishtwar District Development Commissioner A S Rana told PTI. Army columns are assisting the CRPF and the police, the official said. The curfew was promulgated in the town and adjoining areas on Tuesday after RSS leader Chanderkant Sharma and his security guard was shot dead by militants at a health centre. Minor protests were reported from some interior localities, but the situation remained well under control, the officials said. Some people, who were allowed to visit temples in the interior localities for the Ram Navami festival, raised slogans and later dispersed off peacefully, the officials said. There was no violation of curfew reported from anywhere, the officials said. "The situation will be reviewed later in the day to take a decision about the relaxation for the day," Rana said. The curfew was relaxed in a phased manner, for the first time since its imposition, on Friday evening. Police had picked up several overground workers for interrogation in connection with the incident and massive house-to-house searches were also going on.

J&K: Curfew continues in Kishtwar town for fifth day

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow<a href="https://www.wionews.com/india-news/lok-sabha-polls-pm-modi-tweets-16-times-tells-people-to-vote-205453"> Lok Sabha</a> seat on Friday.

"I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26. I am not a dummy candidate. I am not against anyone but 'jumla'. After winning, I will support Rahul Gandhi's PM candidature," he said while talking to ANI after filing his nomination papers.

Pathak had supported Prime Minister Modi during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls.&nbsp;

However, he later joined the Congress party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi.

Pathak had campaigned for the Congress party in the recently held legislative elections in three states.

Miffed with the Congress over the denial of ticket, he filed his nomination as an independent candidate from Lucknow. &nbsp;

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on Friday. "I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26.

Abhinandan Pathak, a lookalike of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, filed his nomination papers as an independent candidate from Lucknow Lok Sabha seat on Friday. "I will also file nomination from Varanasi on April 26. I am not a dummy candidate. I am not against anyone but 'jumla'. After winning, I will support Rahul Gandhi's PM candidature," he said while talking to ANI after filing his nomination papers. Pathak had supported Prime Minister Modi during the 2014 Lok Sabha polls. However, he later joined the Congress party in the presence of Rahul Gandhi. Pathak had campaigned for the Congress party in the recently held legislative elections in three states. Miffed with the Congress over the denial of ticket, he filed his nomination as an independent candidate from Lucknow.

Lok Sabha polls 2019: PM Narendra Modi lookalike files nomination as independent from Lucknow

Jallianwala Bagh centenary: Events that led to the darkest chapter of British colonial rule in India

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party for dismissing the then Tamil Nadu government led by MG Ramachandran and asked Who will do NYAY (justice) to governments of the great MGR ji?

''Who will do Nyay to governments of the great MGR ji which were dismissed by Congress just because one family didn't like those leaders?'' Modi asked the audience in an election rally in Theni, Tamil Nadu.

Modi also targetted the Congress party over &nbsp;Bhopal gas tragedy.&nbsp;

''Who will do Nyay to victims of Bhopal gas tragedy, among the worst environmental disasters in India. That too happened under Congress,'' Modi said.

Targeting MK Stalin for proposing Rahul Gandhi's name for PM candidate and said while DMK president projected the Gandhi scion as PM candidate, everyone in the opposition camp is in the line to be prime minister.

''Some days ago DMK Supremo projected the 'naamdar' as the PM candidate when no one was ready to accept it, not even their 'mahamilawati' friends, Why? Because they all are in the line to be PM and dream of the post,'' &nbsp;he said.

Prime minister also paid tributes to victims of Jallianwala Bagh massacre.

''We observe today, the solemn occasion, of the completion of 100 years since the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. I pay my respects to the martyrs of this incident,'' he said.

Speaking at the same rally, Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami said that all alliance partners in NDA have backed Modi as PM candidate while there is no unity in the opposition camp.

''Congress which is a part of DMK led alliance in Tamil Nadu has announced Rahul Gandhi as PM candidate but its allies have not come out in open supporting his candidature. In our alliance all parties have accepted PM Modi as the PM candidate, this shows our unity,'' he added.&nbsp;

Tamil Nadu's 39 parliamentary constituencies go to polls on April 18.&nbsp;OP&nbsp;Raveendranath, son of O&nbsp;Panneerselvam, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister, is contesting from Tehni constituency in South Tamil Nadu.&nbsp; &nbsp;

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party for dismissing the then Tamil Nadu government led by MG Ramachandran and asked Who will do NYAY (justice) to governments of the great MGR ji?

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday attacked the Congress party for dismissing the then Tamil Nadu government led by MG Ramachandran and asked Who will do NYAY (justice) to governments of the great MGR ji? ''Who will do Nyay to governments of the great MGR ji which were dismissed by Congress just because one family didn't like those leaders?'' Modi asked the audience in an election rally in Theni, Tamil Nadu. Modi also targetted the Congress party over Bhopal gas tragedy. ''Who will do Nyay to victims of Bhopal gas tragedy, among the worst environmental disasters in India. That too happened under Congress,'' Modi said. Targeting MK Stalin for proposing Rahul Gandhi's name for PM candidate and said while DMK president projected the Gandhi scion as PM candidate, everyone in the opposition camp is in the line to be prime minister. ''Some days ago DMK Supremo projected the 'naamdar' as the PM candidate when no one was ready to accept it, not even their 'mahamilawati' friends, Why? Because they all are in the line to be PM and dream of the post,'' he said. Prime minister also paid tributes to victims of Jallianwala Bagh massacre. ''We observe today, the solemn occasion, of the completion of 100 years since the Jallianwala Bagh massacre. I pay my respects to the martyrs of this incident,'' he said. Speaking at the same rally, Tamil Nadu chief minister Edappadi K. Palaniswami said that all alliance partners in NDA have backed Modi as PM candidate while there is no unity in the opposition camp. ''Congress which is a part of DMK led alliance in Tamil Nadu has announced Rahul Gandhi as PM candidate but its allies have not come out in open supporting his candidature. In our alliance all parties have accepted PM Modi as the PM candidate, this shows our unity,'' he added. Tamil Nadu's 39 parliamentary constituencies go to polls on April 18. OP Raveendranath, son of O Panneerselvam, Tamil Nadu Deputy Chief Minister, is contesting from Tehni constituency in South Tamil Nadu.

Who will do NYAY to governments of great MGR? asks PM Modi in Tamil Nadu 

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